(JNS) U.S. Ambassador to Israel Thomas Nides is set to depart his position this summer after two years in the post.

Nides told senior staff at the embassy on Tuesday morning, May 9 about his planned departure, Axios reported, citing two U.S. officials.

The ambassador had informed U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan that he wanted to step down during a trip to Washington last week, one of the officials said.

Nides cited personal reasons, having been away from his family since December 2021.

“Tom has worked with characteristic energy and skill to further strengthen the special bond between the United States and Israel, and to advance U.S. diplomatic, economic and security interests,” Blinken told Axios. “We will all miss having him represent us in Israel but I know he is looking forward to some well-deserved time with his family.”

Nides notified the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office of his decision on Monday.

He has worked with three prime ministers in two years: Benjamin Netanyahu, Naftali Bennett and Yair Lapid.